The end of the season is drawing closer and Manchester United have a lot of work to get done in the coming months as Ineos get down to work.
As has become a rather familiar feeling for United fans, this weekend has been another disappointment.
United could only manage a 1-1 draw on Saturday afternoon, failing to beat relegation-threatened Burnley at Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag’s side again gave up 16 shots and had to rely on Andre Onana to keep the Clarets at bay whilst being profligate in front of goal.
Antony’s opener was cancelled out by a Zeki Amdouni penalty, denying United a victory in the process.
That result won’t do Ten Hag any favours as he looks to prove that he is the manager for United’s future with Ineos already making big changes.
A new CEO, a new technical director, a sporting director on the way at some point – nobody at Old Trafford is safe right now.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe holds transfer meeting
New technical director Jason Wilcox is expected to take the lead on recruitment as United wait for Dan Ashworth’s arrival.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe may also have a part to play though amid claims that he has held a meeting with a prominent agent.
The Mirror claim that Ratcliffe has met with Jorge Mendes to discuss potential signings and build up a rapport with the super-agent.
It’s noted that one United target – Benfica midfielder Joao Neves – is represented by Mendes and is viewed as an ideal signing for Ratcliffe.
Hailed as an ‘excellent’ player by Bruno Fernandes, Neves primarily plays as a playmaker deep in midfield but has chipped in with three goals and two assists this season.
Benfica denied holding talks with United over a deal for Neves in January amid a huge £104million release clause in his contract.
Striking up a relationship with Mendes may help United win this transfer race with Ratcliffe keen to land top talents like the 19-year-old maestro.
Rafael Leao unlikely
The report does though note that a deal for AC Milan’s Rafael Leao isn’t looking likely.
Leao is valued at around £100million and has recorded 13 goals as well as 13 assists in all competitions this season.
An exciting left winger who can play up front if needed, Leao has developed into a top talent at Milan and Mendes could have helped a move.
The price tag is allegedly a problem though, making us feel that activating the Neves clause – at a similar price tag – is unlikely to be paid.
United will need to negotiate effectively in order to bring down the price tags of either Leao or Neves, as Ineos need to budget for multiple signings rather than just splashing out on one player.
Strengthening the bond with Mendes is a start for United and Ineos, with a top prospect like Neves seemingly more likely than an established star like Leao.